The Chamurthi is one of four
recognized indigenous horse breeds in India. It is thought they originally
came from Tibet, which is likely as the Tibetans have a very similar
type of pony. This area has traded with Tibet for centuries and horses
were obviously a main form of transportation as well as highly prized
possessions. They are still taken to local fairs every year, as they
are well known as excellent riding ponies.

Chamurthis
are very strong, sure-footed, rarely fall sick, and have incredible stamina.
They are about 12-13 hands in height and almost always gray or black with
the occasional bay or brown. They have a fine head, almost like a Welsh
pony, and their abdomen is barrel-shaped. Their round, strong hoofs are
seldom shod. They have a short, strong back and neck, good hind quarters,
and tend to be wider in the chest than most other ponies found in this part
of the Himalayas.

Their
most distinctive feature is they do not trot – they pace – and can easily
cover great distances at this gait, seeming to skim the surface rather
than touch it. They also have a running walk or amble. Their gaits are
of the utmost smoothness and are very comfortable for riding. Rough terrain
is no obstacle for them since they are born into a difficult environment.
This also ensures the survival of the fittest in this breed.

They are easy keepers, having
originated in an area with little vegetation. Apart from grazing, they
are mainly fed barley, which is one of the local staples. The mountain
people claim that although vegetation is sparse, it is of high nutrient
quality for the ponies.